The Leadership Mindset

We’ve all seen the images; Drew Brees hyping his teammates in the pregame huddle, Kevin Garnett rallying his teammates on the bench and the hundreds of other images alike. These players leadership is on full-display.

What we fail to see in those inspiring moments is the “leadership mindset” that has been developed allowing players to stand in front of their teammates.

In Lead ‘Em Up we want to focus on developing that “leadership mindset.” Yes, getting to the point where a player has the confidence, courage and desire to stand in front of their teammates boldly leading them is great, but it’s not the focus.

The focus as we teach leadership development is on the “leadership mindset.” Once you’ve developed a leadership mindset then you begin to see fruits of their leadership play-out. Players earn their right to lead those huddles.

So what is a “leadership mindset”? It’s a mindset focused on growth for yourself, your teammates and the team’s mission at hand.

A player focused on growth is a player with a leadership mindset. A player who’s stuck where they are; doesn’t have the mindset to lead.

When we begin to see a player desiring to grow; seeking feedback, pushing themselves, reading, studying, etc… that communicates their leadership mindset is developing.

When we begin to see a player working to grow their teammates by encouraging them, coaching them, holding them accountable, etc… that communicates their leadership mindset is developing.

When we begin to see a player doing whatever is needed to help the team grow; take on different roles, bring the energy every day, etc… that communicates their leadership mindset is developing.

The leaders we see in these special “leadership moments” have been developing their leadership mindset long before they stepped in the moment.

How strong is your leadership mindset?

Are you continuously evaluating yourself on ways to improve as a player or a person? Are you focused on growing your teammates any chance possible? Are you willing to do whatever you can to help the team move forward closer to their goal?

Leadership development applies to every player because we all need to continue developing our leadership mindset.